When you think of Fiordland and Milford Sound, picture towering cliffs, thundering waterfalls, and striking mountain scenery. These remote, rugged landscapes are a haven for boat trips that reveal the true scale and majesty of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Whether you prefer a quick cruise with breathtaking views or a luxurious overnight experience, the region offers a variety of options. We especially like the Premium Milford Sound Tour, Cruise & Lunch from Te Anau for its balance of comfort and adventure, and the Fiordland Jewel overnight cruise for those wanting to immerse themselves fully. Both tours showcase Milford Sound’s stunning waterfalls, wildlife, and dramatic cliffs—each with its own unique twist. For a comprehensive experience, the Premium Milford Sound Tour, Cruise & Lunch from Te Anau provides a full-day adventure with scenic stops and a delicious picnic lunch.
Quick Overview
Our list covers a broad spectrum of boat tours in Milford Sound and Fiordland, including scenic daytime cruises, small-group experiences, luxury lunch cruises, and overnight adventures. Some tours focus on wildlife spotting, like the Milford Sound Nature Cruise with Southern Discoveries, while others like the Milford Mariner Overnight Cruise offer extended stays on the water. Prices range from budget-friendly options around $88 for shorter cruises to exclusive luxury experiences over $800. Whether you’re after a quick taste or a deep dive into the sound’s wonders, there’s something here for you.
1. Premium Milford Sound Tour, Cruise & Lunch from Te Anau
At number 1, the Premium Milford Sound Tour, Cruise & Lunch from Te Anau stands out for its full-day package that combines scenic coach travel with a memorable cruise. The tour departs from Te Anau and hits all the highlights en route, such as the Mirror Lakes, Homer Tunnel, and Eglinton Valley—each offering great photo ops and glimpses of the film-worthy landscapes. The highlight is a cruise on Milford Sound, where you’ll glide past waterfalls and towering cliffs, with a picnic lunch included. This tour’s advantage is its seamless combination of land and water, plus the fact that it takes the stress out of driving through mountain roads. Reviewers love the knowledgeable guides and the small-group atmosphere, with many mentioning guides like Martin and Jeff as making the experience exceptional. For those wanting a comprehensive, well-organized day, this tour offers excellent value for the $158.56 price.
Bottom Line: Ideal for families and travelers who want everything covered with comfort and expert commentary.
2. Milford Sound Day Tour with Scenic Cruise from Queenstown
Positioned second, this 13-hour tour from Queenstown provides a longer, more relaxed experience. You’ll travel through Fiordland National Park, with stops like Mirror Lakes, Homer Tunnel, and Monkey Creek—each adding layers to the story of the land. The cruise itself lasts about 1.5 hours, with enough time to marvel at Mitre Peak and spot wildlife like seals, dolphins, and even penguins. The guide’s commentary is praised, as is the comfortable bus ride through some of New Zealand’s most impressive scenery. At $184.17, it’s slightly pricier, but the inclusion of scenic stops and a full-day itinerary makes it worth it for travelers wanting depth and comfort. Many reviews mention the spectacular scenery, even on overcast days.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those with a full day and a desire for immersive, scenic travel with wildlife watching.
3. Milford Sound Premium Coach & Cruise from Queenstown with Lunch
Number 3 on the list, this premium coach and cruise combines comfort with scenic excellence. Departing from Queenstown, you’ll enjoy a glass-roofed coach providing uninterrupted views during the journey, with commentary along the way. The cruise features a lunch on board, with hot drinks served during the 12.5-hour trip. This tour is praised for its ease—no self-driving, just relaxing, scenic travel and water time. The boat’s large windows and the optional lunch upgrade make it suitable for travelers who want a hassle-free, quality experience. Many guests rave about the scenery and the convenience of this all-in-one tour, especially those who appreciate in-depth commentary and superb views.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers wanting a luxurious, all-inclusive day with minimal planning.
4. Milford Sound Overnight Cruise Fiordland Jewel
Number 4, the Fiordland Jewel overnight cruise, offers a truly immersive experience. This 17.5-hour adventure lets you explore Milford Sound by day, with options for kayaking and wildlife viewing, then spend the night onboard in a private ensuite cabin. The vessel is equipped with a hot tub and outdoor lounges, perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing. Guests rave about the personal touch—the crew’s knowledge, the quality of meals, and the chance to glimpse seals, penguins, and waterfalls in quieter settings. The included breakfast, dinner, and kayak excursions make this a premium choice for those who want more than just a day trip. At $822.66, it’s a splurge but offers a rare, peaceful perspective on Milford’s grandeur.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers looking for a luxurious, slow-paced experience with plenty of wildlife and scenic time.
5. Milford Sound Cruise – RealNZ
At number 5, the 2-hour cruise from RealNZ is a budget-friendly way to get a taste of Milford Sound. It’s perfect if a shorter, more accessible experience is what you seek. This cruise explores the full length of the fiord, passing landmarks like Stirling Falls and Mitre Peak. The review mentions dolphins and penguins, so wildlife sightings are possible even on a quick trip. The indoor lounge and outdoor deck give flexibility depending on weather, which can be unpredictable. The price is attractive at just $88.43 and offers a high-quality boat with plenty of scenic viewing opportunities. Many travelers say it’s an unforgettable way to absorb Milford’s majesty without overcommitting time or money.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers short on time but eager to see Milford Sound’s highlights.
6. Milford Sound Nature Cruise with Southern Discoveries
Number 6 stands out with its small vessel size and naturalist guide, giving a more intimate experience. This 1 hour 45-minute cruise is a relaxed, educational trip focusing on wildlife and geology. Travelers often see Fiordland crested penguins, seals, and dolphins, with the opportunity for a ‘glacial facial’ under Stirling Falls if the weather cooperates. The reviews highlight the passionate guides like Junior and Greg for their humor and knowledge. It’s flexible, with multiple departure times and optional lunch upgrades. Given the smaller boat, the experience feels personal and less crowded, which many say enhances the scenery.
Bottom Line: Best suited for wildlife enthusiasts and those wanting a quieter, more educational cruise.
7. Milford Sound Cruise
Number 7 offers a classic 1 hour 45-minute cruise on a vessel equipped with two glass roofs. It’s perfect for travelers who want a quick, immersive experience of Milford Sound’s iconic landmarks like Bowen Falls and Mitre Peak. The boat’s design allows viewing from both open decks and sheltered areas, making it versatile regardless of weather. Passengers often see fur seals and dolphins. The reviews affirm that this cruise provides stunning scenery with the benefit of knowledgeable crew sharing local insights. It’s a practical, well-reviewed option for those with limited time but a desire for quality.
Bottom Line: Excellent for a short but scenic and wildlife-rich cruise.
8. Milford Sound Cruise: Stunning Views & Optional Picnic or Buffet
Number 8 features a 1 hour 45-minute cruise with the option to upgrade to a picnic or buffet lunch. This tour cruises past Mitre Peak and multiple waterfalls, with plenty of wildlife sightings—dolphins, seals, and crested penguins. The boat’s full-height viewing windows ensure you won’t miss the scenery, and many reviews mention the added value of the optional dining upgrades. The tour is flexible, with multiple departure times, and perfect for travelers who want a quick, comprehensive trip with the option for a nice meal onboard. The reviews praise the scenery and the knowledgeable crew.
Bottom Line: Suitable for those wanting a quick, scenic cruise with dining options.
9. Milford Sound Mariner Overnight Cruise
Number 9, the Mariner Overnight Cruise, is for those seeking a multi-day, immersive experience. You’ll cruise the entire length of Milford Sound, with opportunities to kayak, swim, and spot wildlife like dolphins and seals. The private en suite cabins, gourmet meals, and guided excursions make it a luxurious, hassle-free option. Guests rave about the friendly crew, the comfort of the cabins, and the chance to experience Milford in a peaceful, less crowded setting. This is a serious splurge at around $791.56 for two, but it’s a rare chance to really connect with the sound’s natural beauty.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want a comprehensive, luxurious, and slow-paced Milford experience.
10. Milford Sound Coach & Cruise ex Te Anau Stunning Views with Lunch
Number 10 pairs a scenic coach trip with a cruise, ideal for those who prefer a guided experience. Departing from Te Anau, you’ll visit stops like Mirror Lakes and Eglinton Valley before enjoying a boat cruise with lunch included. The coach provides panoramic views and commentary, making this a practical way to see Milford without the stress of driving. Reviewers love the combination of land and water, especially the scenery en route. At 8.5 hours, it’s a full but manageable day designed for travelers wanting a balanced mix of sightseeing and relaxation.
Bottom Line: A great choice for those preferring guided travel with scenic stops and a cruise.
11. Milford Sound Luxury Lunch Cruise onboard The Fiordland Jewel
Number 11 offers an upscale experience onboard the Fiordland Jewel, a boutique catamaran designed for comfort and style. The lunch is chef-prepared, with options for dietary requirements, and the boat’s small size (about 15 people) ensures an intimate atmosphere. Reviewers describe it as “stunning” and highlight the knowledgeable crew and delicious onboard food. The focus on luxury makes this an excellent pick for travelers seeking a refined experience. Priced at $213.18, it’s on the higher end, but the personalized service and scenic route provide excellent value.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those seeking a relaxed, upscale cruise with gourmet cuisine.
12. Premium Milford Sound Cruise Including Lunch
Number 12 features a smaller vessel with a 2.5-hour cruise, ideal for wildlife viewing and close-up waterfalls. The cruise includes a lunch with locally sourced canapés and a glass of champagne, making it a good value at $182.72. Reviewers appreciate the panoramic views and the chance to see dolphins, seals, and penguins. The relaxed pace and included lunch add a touch of luxury, suited for travelers who want comfort plus scenery.
Bottom Line: Best for animal lovers and those wanting a premium, all-inclusive cruise.
13. Premium Milford Sound Small Group Tour & Cruise from Queenstown
Number 13 offers a 13-hour small-group tour that combines land, water, and a picnic lunch. The small group size and expert guides like Rees make for a personalized experience. It includes cruise tickets, lunch, and scenic stops like Lake Wakatipu and Devil’s Staircase. Many reviews praise the guide’s storytelling, with travelers feeling they learned more about the area than on larger tours. This is a versatile, well-rounded option at $200.63, ideal for travelers who appreciate smaller groups and detailed commentary.
Bottom Line: Perfect for curious travelers who value depth, personal service, and a comprehensive day.
14. Cruise Milford NZ Small Boutique Cruise Experience
Number 14 is a luxury small-boutique cruise that emphasizes intimate, up-close wildlife encounters. The boat’s capacity is limited to about 15 passengers, with live narration from the skipper. The cruise features wildlife sightings of seals, dolphins, and penguins, with complimentary hot drinks and biscuits. Reviewers love the personal atmosphere and the chance to photograph Mitre Peak from a less crowded vessel. Priced at $103.06, it offers a privileged view of Milford Sound’s natural beauty in a cozy setting.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers seeking a personal, wildlife-focused experience with comfort.
15. 2-Hour Milford Sound Scenic Cruise
Finally, the 2-hour scenic cruise provides a quick but comprehensive taste of Milford Sound. This vessel features both an open sun deck and covered areas, allowing flexible viewing. Passengers often see seals, dolphins, and Mitre Peak, with many praising the friendly crew and the chance to get close to major landmarks. The budget-friendly price of $94.52 makes this an excellent option for travelers short on time but eager to see the highlights.
Bottom Line: Ideal for a short, scenic overview with wildlife sightings and flexible weather options.
$94.52 per person
How to Choose the Best Boat Tour or Cruise in Fiordland and Milford Sound
When selecting your tour, consider your budget, time available, and what experiences matter most—whether wildlife, luxury, or a quick overview. If you want a full immersion, the Fiordland Jewel overnight cruise or the small-group Milford Sound & Cruise from Queenstown are top choices. On a tighter schedule, the 2-hour cruise or the stunning views with optional picnic are excellent. For wildlife lovers, the Nature Cruise with Southern Discoveries or the small boutique cruise offer intimate, educational encounters. Booking early is wise—these tours fill up quickly during peak seasons, and some, like the luxury lunch cruise, sell out fast.
In summary, Fiordland and Milford Sound offer a range of boat experiences—from short, scenic cruises to luxurious overnight stays. The Premium Milford Sound Tour with Lunch from Te Anau provides a balanced day of sightseeing and comfort, perfect for families or first-timers. For those craving solitude and wildlife, the Fiordland Jewel overnight cruise is a perfect choice. Meanwhile, the small-group tours combine personal attention with detailed storytelling, ideal for curious travelers. Whichever you pick, booking in advance guarantees a spot on these unforgettable journeys.